Life & Work with Jerod Williams

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jerod Williams.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I am a Legal Assistant by day and a Cardio Dance Fitness Instructor by night.

My journey began when one day during a routine checkup with my doctor and being told that I could stand to lose a few pounds and incorporate some exercise in my life. It was a serious wake-up call for me. After my doctor’s appointment, I drove through Atwater Village in Glendale and my car broke down. I called AAA and they told me that it would take a little while for them to come to my rescue so in the meantime while waiting, I walked around and saw all of these people in this tiny studio (Heartbeat House) crammed in this space dancing, moving, and smiling.

They were basically getting their lives on that dance floor and two people were teaching this class. It definitely piqued my interest and I took a brochure and came back.

From there on, I did their work exchange so that I can do my classes on a regular and then got interested in getting certified to become a dance instructor.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Man, I wish I could say that the journey was easy, it truly wasn’t. Over the years, there have been many disappointments and struggles and most of the struggles have been internally like wondering whether or not I was good enough to teach, and then early on I started comparing myself to others.

That’s one of the biggest things as an individual that creeps up in our souls and that is comparison. “Comparison is the thief of joy” is an expression that I heard at a fitness speaking engagement that resonated with me. I learned that NO ONE can do a better job of being you than YOU. To this day, I challenge myself to do something new and allow myself to be uncomfortable so I can grow. I allow myself to be humble. I allow myself grace. I allow myself room for improvement.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a Cardio Dance Workout Instructor and I specialize in teaching and leading Group Fitness Workout classes. I teach at gyms, and dance studios, on the virtual platform and even do private classes. I am certified in Zumba Fitness, U-Jam Fitness, and COMMIT and I created a format for myself called CARDIO DANCE PARTY. What started out as a hobby and accountability for myself in keeping me active and in shape has transformed into something more meaningful and has brought purpose to my life. One of my dance colleagues once told me to see myself as a movement facilitator and teach whatever you are doing with heart and conviction.

I’m proud of the fact that I have spent 10+ years developing that for myself in the health and fitness industry while bringing exercise and joy to the people I teach. Anyone who walks in the door to take a class from me whether it be one person or more, it’s THEIR time. I truly never make my classes about me, it’s always about the participant and helping their mind, body, and soul. I firmly believe in teaching from the heart and going that extra mile in everything I do.

Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I guess, as of late, I could categorize myself as a risk-taker. Last year, I left a stable job that I could easily do in my head for an incredible opportunity that had the potential for growth and advancement in my career. It was a huge leap of faith. I wouldn’t be in the position where I am today if I didn’t take that risk and I’m grateful for the change. Another crossroad was also due to my career path, it forced me to shift one of my fitness classes from one studio to another.

I’m hoping that this change, will give me room to grow and a fresher perspective on my teaching and also building a community. I am learning, yet again, that being uncomfortable is a sign of growth and determination. I’m allowing myself to be ready for the challenge. Risks make us who we are. Risks may lead to disappointment and on the other side of the coin, risks lead to greatness. You never know until you try.

Contact Info:

• Website: http://www.jerodwilliams.com
• Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/jerodwilliams
• Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/jerod.williams
• Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/jerodwilliams

Image Credits
Z Best Foto, J&X Photography, Jerod Williams, and Candice Torain